Canon EF 70-200mm
f/4L IS USM

• Specifications
• Reviews
• Sample Images
• Initial launch information.

Canon's second edition of its lighter and cheaper version of the f2.8 70-200 IS has excellent optical performance and at only 780gm, is noticeably lighter.

Available from: Amazon.com | Amazon.co.uk | B&H | Adorama

Lens specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type	Zoom lens
Max Format size	35mm FF
Focal length	70–200 mm
Image stabilization	Yes
CIPA Image stabilization rating	5 stop(s)
Lens mount	Canon EF
Aperture
Maximum aperture	F4
Minimum aperture	F32
Aperture ring	No
Number of diaphragm blades	9
Optics
Elements	20
Groups	15
Special elements / coatings	1 fluorite + 2 UD, Super Spectra and fluorine coatings
Focus
Minimum focus	1.00 m (39.37″)
Maximum magnification	0.27×
Autofocus	Yes
Motor type	Ring-type ultrasonic
Full time manual	Yes
Focus method	Internal
Distance scale	Yes
DoF scale	No
Focus distance limiter	Yes
Physical
Weight	780 g (1.72 lb)
Diameter	80 mm (3.15″)
Length	176 mm (6.93″)
Materials	Magnesium alloy
Sealing	Yes
Colour	White
Zoom method	Rotary (internal)
Zoom lock	Unknown
Filter thread	72 mm
Hood supplied	Yes
Tripod collar	Yes

A quick guide to MTF charts (which only measure contrast and resolution. Canon's guide to their MTF charts) Black lines reflect lens performance at widest aperture. Blue lines show the performance at f/8 Thick lines indicate lens contrast Thin lines indicate lens resolution Dashed lines: Lens performance with meridional lines. Solid lines: Lens performance with sagittal lines Closer sagittal and meridional chart lines indicate more 'natural' out of focus areas. Remember that MTF charts are good for comparing similar lenses, so comparing ones from the 14mm f2.8L and 300mm 2.8L won't tell you much at all, whilst comparing the EF14 2.8L with the EF14 2.8L II will show meaningful differences. Note that other manufacturers may have different ways of displaying such information that may or may not match up with the Canon figures.

EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM reviews and articles

• Canon UK / US Information Page
• Amazon
• Northlight Images
• Canon CPN article
• Fred Miranda
• Lens Tip
• Digital Picture
• PhotoZone
• SLR Gear
• Lens Review
• ePhotozine
• Blog - Grant Atkinson

Sample images

Product launch

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 7th June 2018 – Canon has today announced an upgrade to two of its most loved and well-regarded L-series lenses, with the launch of the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM and EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM. The 70-200mm lens has been instrumental for professional, semi-professional and photography enthusiasts for many years, thanks to the ability to easily change image composition by switching from standard to telephoto. This adaptability means both lenses can capture a wide range of subjects, from portraits to wildlife, reaffirming the pivotal role the 70-200mm lens plays in a photographer’s kit bag.

Commenting on the launch of the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM and EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM, Michael Burnhill, European Product Specialist, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon Europe, said: "Following feedback from our global photography community, we are very proud to be introducing these two lenses. We are committed to delivering the best quality and performance-driven products for today’s visual storytellers to ensure we provide unsurpassable choice for photographers looking to meet their image requirements with confidence. The EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM epitomises the very finest in L-series optical technology, whilst being compact in size, robust and lightweight, and the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM offers unbeatable performance, versatility and durability."

Superior quality, robust and compact design – the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM

Built on the high standards of its predecessor, the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM possesses the superior build, durability, and ergonomic design that Canon’s breadth of lenses are renowned for. Weighing just 780g, the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM is great for those on the move. Whether shooting on a beach, or at a wedding, this lens is guaranteed to deliver stunningly crisp images in a range of environments. The Fluorine Coating reduces dirt and water drops clinging to the lens, and Super Spectra coatings eliminate ghosting and flare. The EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM’s fluorite lens elements are capable of correcting colour aberrations, guaranteeing high resolution and high contrast images. This excellent and reliable image quality is invaluable in reducing time spent on post-production.

The EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM’s f/4 constant aperture provides consistent exposure in a range of varying lighting scenarios. The nine blades on the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM 's circular aperture create a pleasing bokeh effect, blurring the background and helping to accentuate the subject. The EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM comprises a new Image Stabilizer unit, based on the design of Canon’s EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, which delivers the equivalent effect of a shutter five-stops faster, compared to the previous lens' three-stops[i]. This is beneficial for any shooting scenario where the camera may be jostled, such as at film premieres, or shooting wildlife on safari.

The EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM uses a combination of a Ring USM and a new third generation EF engine, which features a new high-performance control CPU and newly developed firmware, to drive greater speed and accuracy in achieving high-speed autofocus. The silent functioning autofocus can also be tweaked manually and allows a close focusing distance of 1m, compared to the 1.2m on its predecessor. These features make the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM perfect for unobtrusive and precise shooting, characteristics required to successfully capture street photography.

High-performance, versatile and durable – the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM

The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM replaces Canon’s flagship 70-200mm lens, enhancing the experiences of photographers using this industry leading lens. It has been designed with high-performance and robustness at its heart, ideal for a photographer who requires a high-quality telephoto lens for accurate detail. Built to meet the demands of professionals, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM’s protective seals make it an obvious choice for challenging conditions. Resistant to both moisture and dust, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM also comprises fluorine-coated front and rear elements, which are easy to clean. With the functionality photographers love, updates to the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM’s durability means it is excellent for shooting high-quality travel photography.

With its wide f/2.8 maximum aperture and eight-bladed circular diaphragm, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM opens up a world of creative options. It enables the photographer to emphasise pin-sharp subjects against a silky smooth, out-of-focus background. Thanks to its first-class fluorite and UD optics, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM delivers high contrast and excellent resolution. When using this lens, a photographer can be confident that they can achieve the perfect shot. Shooting in low light is also no problem for the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM, thanks to its fast f/2.8 maximum aperture, which is constant throughout the zoom range and lets in twice as much light as an f/4 lens.

Camera shake isn’t something users of the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM should be concerned about as a 3.5-stop Image Stabilizer compensates any blur caused by movement. A ring-type USM motor offers silent autofocus at outstanding speeds, and manual adjustments can be made at any time with a simple twist of the focus ring. These features make the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM an exceptional lens for perfectly, and quietly, capturing animals in their natural habitat.

EF 7-200mm f/4L IS II USM - Key Features
Versatile 70-200m zoom range
Constant f/4 max aperture
Ring-type USM focusing
5-stop Image Stabilizer
Highly portable, weighs just 780g

EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM - Key Features
Versatile 70-200mm zoom range
Constant f/2.8 max aperture
Ring-type USM focusing
3.5-stop Image Stabilizer
Tough, weather-proof construction

Pricing and availability
The EF 7-200mm f/4L IS II USM is available from summer 2018 with an SRP of £1,299.99/€1,519.99
The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM is available from summer 2018 with an SRP of £2,149.99/€2,499.99